Ekiti Insists on Local Content in Public Projects, Warns Contractors on Compliance.

Ekiti Insists on Local Content in Public Projects, Warns Contractors on Compliance.

The Ekiti State Government has declared that ongoing public projects in the state capital must translate directly into jobs and business opportunities for local artisans, vendors, and small businesses.

Director-General of the State Bureau of Local Content, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, who announced this when he led an enforcement and monitoring exercise on Monday, said the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji would not tolerate contractors sidelining Ekiti people in the execution of government contracts.

“Our mandate is simple: every public project must deliver real socio-economic benefits to our people. Contractors must engage local artisans, hire local labour, and source materials from within the state wherever possible. This is not negotiable,” Ijidale warned.

During the inspection, the Bureau engaged Rutnael Projects Limited, the contractor handling the remodelling of the historic Adekunle Fajuyi Memorial Park, where the project manager, Arch. Akinola Olayinka, assured officials that Ekiti workers would be fully involved and that materials would be sourced locally. 

“We are committed to compliance. Ekiti people will be engaged and we will document all local procurement as the work progresses,” he pledged.

The monitoring team also visited five other major projects, including the proposed Government House Chalet handled by Solarboard Construction Company, the new Senators’ Lodge within the Government House premises by Aloreck Construction Company Limited. 

Other places were the rehabilitation of Ado–Ijan–Iluomoba–Imesi Road (Phase I) by Dipcrest Construction Company Limited, the rehabilitation of Okemesi–Ido Ile–Ita Ido Ekiti Road by Banky Construction Company and the construction of Ekiti State Indoor Sports Hall by Aron Nigeria Limited.

Hon. Ijidale emphasised that the Bureau will not rely on verbal promises but on verifiable evidence, stressing the need for contractors to submit updated implementation schedules, payrolls of local artisans, procurement records and sub-contracting plans within two weeks. 

He added that spot checks, documentation reviews, and engagement with artisan associations would be used to track compliance.

“The aim is to create jobs, strengthen local supply chains, and grow the capacity of our artisans and small businesses. Any contractor that fails to meet these requirements risks sanctions,” he warned.

According to him, the state’s broader vision is to ensure that public investments leave lasting economic value for Ekiti residents beyond roads, buildings and monuments. 

“Projects must not only be delivered on time and to specification, but they must also deliver tangible benefits to the people of Ekiti. That is the standard we will enforce,” he submitted.

A STERN WARNING AGAINST DISINFORMATION AND SMEAR CAMPAIGNS.

A STERN WARNING AGAINST DISINFORMATION AND SMEAR CAMPAIGNS.

The attention of  BAO SOLIDARITY MOVEMENT and the loyal supporters of progress and good governance has been drawn to a desperate, coordinated smear campaign being orchestrated by certain opposition elements against the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO).

This malicious campaign, which is being propagated through shadowy online platforms and sponsored political detractors, is aimed at tarnishing the hard-earned reputation of a man wholly dedicated to the service of the good people of Ekiti State.

We state categorically that these attempts are baseless, fabricated, and a complete distortion of reality. They are the last resort of a political opposition that has been rendered irrelevant by the overwhelming performance and widespread acceptance of the Oyebanji administration.

Governor Oyebanji’s tenure has been marked by unprecedented transparency, humility, and a relentless focus on the Ekiti Development Agenda. His commitment to good governance, infrastructural development, workers' welfare, and agricultural revolution is evident for all to see. The people of Ekiti, who are the ultimate judges, are witnessing tangible progress daily and cannot be fooled by cheap blackmail.

We hereby issue a stern warning to those behind this nefarious scheme:

1.  Cease and Desist Immediately: Stop the circulation of false narratives, doctored materials, and malicious allegations. The internet is not a lawless space, and libelous statements have severe legal consequences.

2.  We Have Detailed Records: Be advised that we are meticulously documenting all sources and purveyors of this disinformation. Your activities are being monitored, and you will be held accountable.

3.  Legal Action is Imminent: We have instructed our legal team to commence immediate legal proceedings against all individuals, groups, and platforms involved in this character assassination. This will include lawsuits for defamation, libel, and cyberstalking to the fullest extent of the law.

4.  Focus on Issues, Not Lies:  We challenge the opposition to engage in a healthy, issue-based debate on governance and development, if they have any credible alternatives to offer. Resorting to smear campaigns only exposes their intellectual bankruptcy and moral deficit.

To the good people of Ekiti State and the general public, we urge you to disregard these pathetic attempts to distract the Governor and his team from their people-focused mission. Your unwavering support for Governor Oyebanji is the greatest rebuke to these merchants of falsehood.

The government remains steadfastly focused on delivering on its promises and will not be deterred by the antics of desperate politicians.

Signed,

Malam T S Salami 

Convener and DG 

BAO SOLIDARITY MOVEMENT ADO EKITI

Don't Abuse Financial Autonomy Granted Ekiti LGs, Oyebanji Urges Council Bosses.

Don't Abuse Financial Autonomy Granted Ekiti LGs, Oyebanji Urges Council Bosses.

...Mobilises for second term, INEC registration.

In his quests to rev up the pedal of development at the grassroots, the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has advised the Local Government chairmen to eschew financial profligacy and mismanagement that could cause gross abuse of financial autonomy granted the councils in the state. 

Oyebanji averred that the cardinal focus of the financial freedom, was to ignite execution of landmark and beneficial projects at the third tier, warning that such  dream may be thwarted, if monies accruing to the local governments are being pillaged, or spent on frivolities. 

The governor gave the charge in Igogo Ekiti, on Monday, while commissioning some projects executed by the Chairman of Ero Local Council Development Area, Hon. Felicia Ibiloye.

At the occasion, the governor commissioned the new Ero LCDA Secretariat Complex, built by Ibiloye's administration, and launched Ero LCDA chapter of Adire Ekiti fabric and BAO Aged Foundation, where scores of indigent elderly benefited clothing materials and rice palliative. 

Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, appealed to Ekiti citizens to back his second term bid, so that the lofty programmes being initiated by his government can gain momentum across all the towns. 

As the scramble for the State's governorship poll approaches, Oyebanji, appealed to the residents above 18 years to participate in the Continuous Voter Registration declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission, to be able to participate in the June 20, 2026 governorship election. 

Dazzled by the performance rating of Ero LCDA chairperson, the governor, saluted the council boss for maintaining peace and safety with neighbouring state of Kwara, by fostering collaboration among stakeholders to ward off cross border criminals. 

The governor revealed that his administration has demonstrated passion and admiration for local government autonomy, so that projects that can alleviate poverty, improve standards of living and make lives more abundant for the masses are executed at the rural level. 

"Since assumption of office, we haven't  hidden our admiration for the local government autonomy, particularly its  financial freedom. That is why you must support the governor's second term and participate in the INEC voter registration, especially those who were not up to 18 years in 2022, so that these good projects can continue. 

"Today in our state, our councils are embarking on life- changing projects in road infrastructures, healthcare delivery, school renovation and construction, market stall construction and reconstruction, commercial  farming to boost food security, among others.

"It is not gainsaid that all these were achieved because of the governor's preference for financial autonomy for our councils. Under this context, our council bosses should redouble efforts, work hard and reciprocate the governor's gestures, by being prudent and place high premium on delivery of democracy dividends to our people.

"It is our hope that this opportunity wouldn't be abused in the overall interest of our people".

For working assiduously to foster peace in spite of proximity to a Kwara State, Oyebanji showered encomiums on the council boss, traditional rulers and the residents, for the progressive mileage achieved in terms of implementation of impactful projects that can transform the lives of the populace.

"The government is indeed very appreciative of the collaborations among all stakeholders in ensuring security of lives across borders in the council despite sharing boundaries with Osun and Kwara States".

Oyebanji  assured the  good people of the council that his administration will continue to serve them diligently to combat poverty and make lives more abundant for all citizens.

The Chairperson of Ero LCDA, Hon. Felicia  Ibiloye, anchored her achievement in by the saddle of governance on the financial freedom being savoured under Oyebanji's government, saying rural development is strategic to development of any nation.

Mrs Ibiloye said her administration has embarked on channelisation projects to curb erosion and flooding, installation of 800kva/800W solar system, construction of  culverts and Okada garage and many other initiatives that are opening economic opportunities, through the financial freedom given to the council.

She assured that all the projects being championed by her council will be completed before the expiration of her tenure, saying she has zero tolerance for abandoned projects in line with Governor Oyebanji's vision. 

Mrs Ibiloye described the Secretariat Complex built for the staff of the council as a masterpiece that will provide conducive working environment for the local government workers

Metropolitan School Holds Pre-Statutory Meeting, Tasks Teachers on Discipline.

Metropolitan School Holds Pre-Statutory Meeting, Tasks Teachers on Discipline.

  _By Olamide Akinwumi, Oluronke Kuku_ 

The Metropolitan International Group of Schools, Ado Ekiti, held its pre-statutory meeting ahead of the new academic session on Monday, 15th September, 2025, with the school management charging teachers to embrace discipline, punctuality and hard work as the foundation for academic excellence.

Speaking at the meeting, the Proprietor of the school, Elder Oguntuase Shina, urged teachers to lead by example, stressing that effective time management and commitment to duty would not only reflect in the quality of teaching but also in the moral upbringing of the students.

“Our students are watching us closely. Beyond academics, they rely on us for character modelling. Teachers must therefore set the pace in discipline, punctuality and dedication,” Oguntuase said.

The proprietor noted that the success of students depends largely on the collective effort of teachers and management, urging staff to rededicate themselves to nurturing well-rounded learners who can stand shoulder to shoulder with their peers across the world.

In response, the teachers, speaking in one accord, assured the management of their readiness to cooperate and work tirelessly towards the progress of the school. They reaffirmed their commitment to academic excellence, moral development and teamwork.

The pre-statutory meeting, which also featured moments of familiarisation among staff, ended with prayers for the prosperity of the school, the welfare of teachers and the success of students in the new academic session.

NYC CHAIRMEN CONGRATULATE THE NEWLY ELECTED NATIONAL PRESIDENT, NIGERIAN YOUTH CONGRESS (NYC), ENGR. ANNUM JETHRO TERHILE.

NYC CHAIRMEN CONGRATULATE THE NEWLY ELECTED NATIONAL PRESIDENT, NIGERIAN YOUTH CONGRESS (NYC), ENGR. ANNUM JETHRO TERHILE.

On behalf of the Forum of Chairmen of the Nigerian Youth Congress, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to you, Engr. Annum Jethro Terhile, on your well-deserved election as the National President of the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC).

Your emergence is a clear testament to your unwavering commitment, resilience, and dedication to the advancement of Nigerian youths. We believe that your vision, passion, and dynamic leadership will inspire a new era of inclusiveness, innovation, and transformation within the Congress and across the Nigerian youth constituency.

As the Forum of Chairmen, we pledge our full support and collaboration towards the actualization of your agenda, especially in areas of youth empowerment, capacity building, and active participation in nation-building. Together, we will ensure that the voices of Nigerian youths are not only heard but also translated into impactful actions for national development.

We pray for divine wisdom, strength, and guidance as you embark on this noble journey of service. May your tenure bring unity, progress, and unprecedented achievements for the Nigerian Youth Congress and the Nigerian youths at large.

Once again, congratulations, Mr. President.

Long live the Nigerian Youth Congress!

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Signed:

Aare Adedara Temitope Moses

Chairman, Forum of Chairmen,

National Headquarters, Abuja

Sir Barr. Aniekan Etim

Secretary, Forum of Chairmen,

National Headquarters, Abuja

Ekiti First Lady advocates healthy living through good diet.

Ekiti First Lady advocates healthy living through good diet. 

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji has restated the need for good dietary attitude in order to achieve healthy living, stressing that the quality of food taken does not only fuel the body, but also shapes the health, confidence, and outward appearance.

Dr Oyebanji stated this in Ado Ekiti on Saturday at the launch of a book entitled ‘Beauty Bites: Practical Guide to Maximizing Nutrition for Aesthetic Youthful Glow”, written by a notable Dietitian, and Ekiti State Chief Nutritionist, Dr Bolanle Olorunyomi. She noted that healthy eating remains the surest path to wellness, strength, and long-lasting beauty.

The Governor’s wife, who was represented by the Director-General, Civic Orientation, Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa congratulated the author for delivering the masterpiece to the world saying “the courage to write and publish a book cannot be overstated. It is an act of faith. Faith that your words matter. Faith that your ideas will find a place in the heart of readers. And faith that the society in which you live will embrace your contribution. 

“This launch is therefore not just a personal achievement, it is a communal victory. It challenges all of us, especially our young people, to find their voices, to tell their stories, and to leave behind a mark of excellence in whichever field they choose to pursue.” She stated.

Dr Oyebanji added that the author reinforces the Ekiti identity as a fountain of knowledge. She also reminded everyone of the responsibility to keep nurturing a culture of reading, writing, and learning saying the Ekiti identity of great academicians is not an accident but an heritage carried with pride and a legacy that binds everyone together to the pursuit of education, wisdom and enlightenment.

“I celebrate your courage, your creativity, and your commitment to enriching the intellectual and cultural fabric of our society. Through this book, you are not only contributing to the literary world, but also helping to shape the values and aspirations of countless readers who will encounter your words. Keep shining and may this milestone open doors to even greater heights for you.” She stated.

The Governor’s wife also urged the attendees not only to purchase the book, but to share  it as well as practise the lessons it teaches, affirming that the book is more than just a publication but a conversation starter. 

In her remarks, the author, Dr Bolanle Olorunyomi said she was motivated to write the book because from her years of practice as a Dietitian, she discovered that most of the health challenges encountered by people is due to what they eat.

Dr Olorunyomi added that the book aimed to encourage and enlighten people on the need to begin to take their nutrition seriously so as to live a healthy life and be free from avoidable ailments or diseases that can be detrimental to their wellbeing. 

The event also had in attendance the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Olabanji Filani, some serving and retired Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service.

Obesere, Qdot, Femi Solar Storm Ado-Ekiti for Grand Opening of Town Tavern Lounge.

Obesere, Qdot, Femi Solar Storm Ado-Ekiti for Grand Opening of Town Tavern Lounge.

Ado-Ekiti is about to experience an unforgettable night of music, comedy and fun as the brand-new Town Tavern Lounge officially opens its doors on Thursday, September 25th, at 8 PM.

Located at KM 8, Ikere Road, after the Pastoral Center in the state capital, the lounge is set to redefine nightlife in Ekiti State with top-class entertainment and hospitality.

To mark the grand opening, a lineup of celebrated artists will thrill guests, including Fuji maestro Obesere, street sensation Qdot and Juju star, Femi Solar, alongside other entertainers delivering the best of comedy, dance and live music.

According to the organizers, the event promises to be a perfect blend of relaxation, vibes and star-studded performances. 

With its strategic location and a touch of class, Town Tavern Lounge is poised to become the new heartbeat of nightlife and entertainment in Ekiti.

The Town Tavern Lounge is designed as a modern relaxation hub featuring a soothing ambience, premium sound system, spacious interiors, a mini football pitch and VIP-style services; all under the management of Mister Heybee Hospitality Solution, renowned for its customer-friendly “S.T.A.R.” service culture.

Guests are encouraged to make table reservations early to secure their spots for what is expected to be one of the most talked-about openings in Ado-Ekiti this year.

For reservations and enquiries, call +234 703 113 9374.